I wouldn't take everything the Admissions Office says at face value. Right before they sent alternate emails, they were telling people that "Under Consideration" in the portal meant that the Admissions Committee didn't review the application yet, and clearly that wasn't the case. I'm hoping this is a similar circumstance and that they sent the emails out earlier than they wanted to and that's why they're giving out the safe answer to anyone that calls and asks about them.this is a bit depressing :/